"I WANT TO RETURN HERE AS THE MOTHER OF A UNIVERSITY STUDENT!": HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 3RD OPEN PARENT MEETING AT KUPALA UNIVERSITY
Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno hosted a large-scale open meeting for parents, featuring Rector Iryna Kiturka. This innovative format for engaging with the families of prospective students—pioneered in the country by Kupala University—drew over 500 attendees to the university’s assembly hall, with an additional 150+ viewers tuning in via a live stream on the official YouTube channel.
The primary objective of the meeting was to provide parents and high school students with comprehensive, reliable information to help them chart a successful educational and career path.
The event kicked off with a vibrant performance by the "Kroki" stylized dance studio.
Iryna Kiturka, Rector of Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno, Doctor of Historical Sciences and a professor, delivered a welcoming address and a detailed presentation.
"At the start of each academic year, as part of 'Parental Love Week,' we traditionally invite the parents of graduating high school students to an open meeting—this is the third time we have held an event in this format," noted Iryna Kiturka. "High school students and their families are now entering a critical phase: it is time to choose not only a future profession but also the university where they will pursue their studies. Our university’s mission is to identify, unlock, and realize the potential of every student and staff member—that is truly what we strive for."
In her address, the Rector outlined key milestones in the university’s history—from its origins as a Teachers' Institute in 1940 to its current status as a leading regional center for education, science, and culture.
Today, Kupala University comprises 13 faculties and 4 colleges, offering a multi-level system of continuous education. The university features a unique digital ecosystem called "Smart University," which includes a personal student account, a mobile class schedule, an electronic grade book, and 100% access to study materials from anywhere in the world. It holds a recognized international reputation, appearing in prestigious global rankings (such as Webometrics, THE Impact Rankings, and UI GreenMetric). Furthermore, one in five full-time students is an international citizen—with over 2,500 international students representing 32 countries. Additionally, Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is a five-time recipient of the Government of the Republic of Belarus Prize for achievements in quality.
During her presentation, the Rector highlighted the social support system, noting that students can receive tuition discounts of up to 60%, transition to state-funded (tuition-free) spots, and access financial stipends or grants from a fund dedicated to supporting talented youth.
The university offers an ideal environment for prospective students, ranging from standard admission pathways to an increased number of spots for targeted training programs, as well as admission without entrance exams for top-performing students (medalists) and winners of academic Olympiads.
During an "open microphone" session, parents had the opportunity to ask the Rector questions directly. Topics included benefits for orphans, admission pathways for graduates of specialized pedagogical high school classes, opportunities for pursuing master’s and doctoral (postgraduate) degrees, and various other matters.
Following the formal proceedings and a musical performance by soloists from the "Unison" studio, the parent meeting transitioned to interactive zones. Guests were able to speak with Avak Vartanian, Executive Secretary of the Admissions Committee, as well as the deans of all 13 faculties. Families learned about admission score thresholds, the specifics of various academic programs and post-graduation job placement, and explored the university’s athletic and creative opportunities.
"Every October, we hold this event, where all of our university’s faculties are represented." "Here, parents can speak directly with the rector, deans, and faculty members, learn about the specifics of the training provided in each field of study, and get answers to any questions—including those regarding upcoming changes to the admissions process—from the admissions committee staff. For families from the Grodno region and other parts of Belarus, this is a wonderful opportunity to see the university in person," noted Avak Vartanian.
Parents showed particular interest in a meeting with prospective employers. Representatives from various enterprises and organizations in the Grodno region discussed high-demand professions, the nature of future internships, and guaranteed job placement.
For many families, this open dialogue serves as an excellent chance not only to learn about admission requirements firsthand but also to get acquainted with the faculties, teaching staff, and the future student environment. Among the attendees was Palina Prakapenya, a high school student from Secondary School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty. She has already decided on her professional path:
"I am considering the 'Jurisprudence' program at the Faculty of Law. I have always gravitated toward the humanities, and I am especially fascinated by the history of Belarus."
Tatsiana Prokopenya supports her daughter’s choice, as she herself was once part of the extended Kupala University family:
"I graduated from the Faculty of History in 2004 and defended my master’s thesis here in 2009. Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno is my alma mater. I look back on the years spent within these walls with great warmth—they were the best of times. Today, I was reminded once again that Kupala University is truly the best."
Evialina Shchuka, another student from School No. 5 named after V.L. Volodos in Mosty, is also drawn to the Faculty of Law, specifically the "Jurisprudence" program.
Her mother, Sviatlana Shchuka, shared her impressions of the open meeting:
"The meeting left a wonderful impression. All the information was presented clearly and accessibly, and the event was organized to a very high standard. The university has truly captured our interest. Naturally, I’m now very keen to return here—this time as the mother of a university student!"
